Posted: 23/06/15
A fabulous academic year celebrated
Up to 50 West Nottinghamshire College students took to the stage for a glittering celebration of their efforts and achievements on Thursday (18 June).
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Smiles all round from well-deserving students
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Principal's award winners with Dame Asha Khemka DBE
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Stephen Clarke was presented with the Aaron Britt memorial award by Sue and Dave Britt
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CEO of the Skills Funding Agency Peter Lauener was keynote speaker at the event
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Lord Lieutenant of Nottinghamshire Sir John Peace gave students inspiration for the future
They were presented with awards by principal and chief executive Dame Asha Khemka DBE at the college’s annual celebration of achievement after being nominated by their tutors for special recognition. Also presenting awards were representatives from sponsoring companies.
Five Principal’s Student of the Year Awards were presented at this year’s event, which was held in the Derby Road campus’ covered courtyard venue.
Keynote speaker was Peter Lauener, chief executive of the Education and Skills Funding Agency and honoured guest was Nottinghamshire’s Lord Lieutenant, Sir John Peace.
One award went to university-level student Helen Allsop. The 22-year-old who is studying the Foundation Degree in Criminal Justice – Human Rights, has shone during her time at the college which has seen her become a student advocate, providing great support at college events.
Helen started studying at the college four years ago on a Level 3 programme and will be returning next year to study the BA top up degree and would eventually like to teach at the college.
Helen said: “Tonight’s principal’s award was a marvellous surprise for me. I’ve really enjoyed my years at the college and I can’t wait to come back in September. Every aspect of support at college has been brilliant and I’ve always enjoyed my courses.”
Another was presented to 16-year-old automotive maintenance and repair student, Thomas Hughes. Tutors praised his outstanding work and his commitment to supporting other class members with their technical and practical work. Thomas has been heavily involved in extra-curricular events which have helped him mature into a promising young adult.
The third award went to Luke Timons who has repeatedly achieved distinction star grades in his BTEC qualification in construction and the built environment. Always going the extra mile in his studies, he’s preparing to study architecture at the University of Lincoln.
The penultimate award was presented to 18-year-old Luke Downing who was praised for achieving many distinctions in the BTEC Level 3 Diploma in IT. Last year he went to Spain to oversee a national event for clients using an ‘app’ he has developed at college.
The final principal’s student of the year award went to 18-year-old Level 3 Professional Cookery student Lewis Kuciers. Lewis was recognised for transforming from a shy and reserved student into a committed and dedicated student. As a respected member of his class, Lewis is proud to be going on to a placement at the two-star Michelin restaurant under the direction of Raymond Blanc.
The Aaron Britt memorial award was presented to BTEC Level 3 Extended Diploma IT student Stephen Clarke. The award was presented to by Sue and Dave Britt, parents of Aaron, who sadly died in a road accident on Derby Road in 2011.
This special memorial award remembers the computer science student whose creative, enthusiastic personality will be remembered by staff and students at the college.
Dame Asha Khemka said: “Already another academic year has passed and once again I am so proud to see so many students achieve great things over that year.
“There have been many stories shared tonight proving just how much education is transforming lives, not only by providing new skills but giving individuals new confidence and purpose.
“I was delighted to see how proud their families and friends were of their achievements and it was clear to see how well supported our students are while studying at the college.
“It was especially good to welcome many of our employer partners who go a long way to support our students in their training on apprenticeships and with valuable work placements.”
The sponsors of the awards were Eversheds, Skanska, Browne Jacobson, The Inspire and Achieve Foundation, Francesco Group, Linney Group, McGregors Corporate and KPMG.
